If you could use some extra screen space at your computer but don't want to buy a second monitor, your Galaxy Tab can be a useful substitute. Unlike a monitor, you can't simply plug it into your computer and use it as a screen. Instead, you can use one of a range of applications that send the information to your Tab through a local Wi-Fi network.

Air Display

1. Download the free Air Display software for PC or Mac on your computer from the Avatron website. Install the software. You'll then need to restart your computer, at which point Air Display will run in the background.

2. Purchase and download the AirDisplay app from the Google Play or Amazon App Store on your Tab. Open the app, making sure your computer and Tab are both connected to the same network.

3. Open the "Options" or "System Preferences" menu in the app on your computer if you want to change the setup to mirror your main screen. The default uses the Tab screen as an extension of your main screen.

iDisplay

1. Download and install the iDisplay software for PC or Mac on your computer from the Getidisplay website. Open and run the software, once installed.

2. Purchase and download the iDisplay app from the Google Play store on your Tab. Open the app, making sure your computer and Tab are both connected to the same network.

3. Use finger gestures such as sliding or pinching directly on the Tab as an alternative to the mouse if you want to move or resize windows on your Tab screen.

Tip

Unless you have mirror mode enabled, most second screen apps for the Tab will treat it in the same way as a monitor and will assume it is in a particular position, for example, to the right of the main screen. You'll need to use either the computer software itself or the monitor display settings in your computer's operating system if you want to change the position of the Tab. If you don't do this, you may find it confusing when you move windows off the main screen on to your Tab.

About the Author

A professional writer since 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, John Lister ran the press department for the Plain English Campaign until 2005. He then worked as a freelance writer with credits including national newspapers, magazines and online work. He specializes in technology and communications.